System and method for wireless environmental zone control

ABSTRACT

A system and method to control environmental parameters of predefined zones within a structure. An embodiment of the system uses damper assemblies that are entirely wireless as a result of energy capturing devices which convert air flow within the HVAC system ductwork into electrical current and a wireless control module that remove the need for hard-wiring for power or control. Still further, an embodiment of the system uses wireless components to monitor the environmental parameters of a structure&#39;s zones, process and communicate necessary zone adjustments, and actuate system components.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 14/881,920 filed Oct. 13, 2015, assigned U.S. Pat. No.10,190,794, which claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 62/063,207 filed on Oct. 13, 2014, and U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 62/107,789 filed on Jan. 26, 2015,all of which are incorporated herein in their entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Certain embodiments of the present invention relate to HVAC zoning. Moreparticularly, certain embodiments of the present invention relate to asystem and method to control environmental parameters of predefinedzones within an environment.

BACKGROUND

The cooling and heating of commercial buildings and residential homes istypically accomplished via forced air and forced hot or cooled waterdistribution systems. A furnace, heat pump, other fossil fuel furnace,and/or air conditioner are typically used to supply heated air or cooledair to areas of the building or home via ducts. Such distributionsystems are often controlled by a single thermostat which is centrallylocated within the building or home. A person sets the thermostat to aparticular temperature setting. When the temperature measured by thethermostat deviates a predefined amount from the set temperature, afurnace, heat pump, other fossil fuel furnace, or air conditioner isturned on to provide heated or cooled air or water to the variousregions of the building or home via the duct work or water lines.

Even though the desired temperature may be achieved at the location ofthe thermostat, the resultant temperatures in the various other regionsof the building or home may still deviate quite a bit from this desiredtemperature. Therefore, a single centrally located thermostat may notprovide adequate temperature control for individual rooms and areas. Inan attempt to address this problem, duct work and pipes throughout thebuilding or home are fitted with manually adjustable registers, dampers,or valves which help to control the flow of air or water to the variousregions.

A damper, which may generally be a valve or plate that stops orregulates the flow of air inside a duct, chimney, variable air volumebox, air handler, or other air handling equipment, can utilize manual orautomatic functions to shut off or restrict the flow of air into variousrooms in order to regulate its temperature and climate. Manual dampersand valves are typically each adjusted to a single position and left inthat state. Such an adjustment may be sufficient for a particular timeof year, outside temperature level, and humidity level, but is likelynot optimal for most other times of the year and other temperature andhumidity levels. Furthermore, such an adjustment may only be suitablefor a particular time of day due to the internal and external daily loadvariances that occur depending on, for example, the position of the sun,whether or not lights are on, and how many people are in a particulararea. Moreover, it may be time consuming and difficult to manuallyre-adjust the dampers and valves for optimal comfort level. Dampersactuated by electric motors or pneumatic components are a recentindustry development which relieve homeowners of manual damperadjustments, but they may also require the installation of expensive andcomplex wiring, and/or pressurized air lines, to power sources andthermostats.

The complexity of damper flow control systems continues to increase asthe industry has developed multi-zone control systems in an attempt tobetter control the environmental parameters in each room or region of ahome or building, for example, by placing thermostats and/or sensors ineach room or groups of rooms. A zone may be equipped with a temperature,humidity, motion, or other sensor in communication with a centralthermostat or thermostat located in the zone. When the temperature fallsoutside of the defined acceptable range, the thermostat or sensortriggers actuation of the heating or cooling source, and/or movement ofthe dampers, until the zone once again achieves the desired temperature.

However, such systems are not entirely successful since a structure withmultiple rooms and zones requires the installation of highly complexwiring systems, and/or pneumatic air lines, in order to provide powerand control signals to the thermostats, sensors, and/or dampers.Specifically, the expense of the required wiring or air lines, itsinstallation, and the utility bills associated with powering associateddampers, sensors, and thermostats can be cost prohibitive. Retrofitinstallation of wiring systems can be particularly difficult andexpensive.

Moreover, known climate control systems are typically controlled by acentralized thermostat which is hardwired to a single location. Thiscentralized thermostat, in turn, is hardwired to a power source and alldampers associated with the climate control system. Thus, a persondesiring a change in temperature must physically move to the centralizedthermostat in order to enter temperature control instructions.

In view of the foregoing discussion, it is apparent that there is a needfor a more efficient way of controlling the distribution of air or waterand environmental parameters for several zones in a building or home.

Further limitations and disadvantages of conventional, traditional, andproposed approaches will become apparent to one of skill in the art,through comparison of such systems and methods with the system andmethod as set forth in the remainder of the present application withreference to the drawings.

SUMMARY

In one example embodiment, a system to wirelessly control environmentalparameters of a predefined zone is disclosed. The system includes adamper associated with the zone and configured to regulate the flow ofair inside an air duct of the zone. The damper includes an optionalwireless energy harvesting device adapted to capture energy in an HVACconduit. The damper further includes an energy storage device adapted tostore energy captured by the energy harvesting device. The damperassembly is configured to operate using energy generated by the energyharvesting device. The system further includes a temperature controllerassociated with the damper, configured to monitor the temperature in thezone, to receive as input a desired temperature for the zone, and tocommunicate data representative of the zone temperature and the desiredtemperature and to request service at the zone. The system furtherincludes a control box in wireless communication with the damperassembly and the temperature controller, the control box configured toadjust the position of the damper to regulate the flow of air inside theair duct of the zone based on the data representative of the zonetemperature and the desired temperature received from the temperaturecontroller.

In one example embodiment, a damper for an HVAC system is disclosed. Thedamper includes a rail assembly for providing support to the damper andfor securing and sealing the damper on an air duct. The damper furtherincludes a damper blade assembly configured to regulate the amount ofair passing through an air duct. The damper further includes a dampermodule configured to control the orientation of the damper bladeassembly. The damper further includes an optional scavenger assemblyconfigured to harvest energy from air passing by the damper inside theair duct. The damper further includes a scavenger module configured tostore energy harvested by the scavenger module.

In one example embodiment, a method for wirelessly controllingenvironmental parameters of a predefined zone is disclosed. The methodincludes the step of providing a control box, a wireless temperaturecontroller associated with the zone, and a damper assembly associatedwith the zone, the damper including a wireless energy harvesting device,an energy storage device, and a module for actuating damper assemblyoperation. The method further includes the step of collecting datarepresentative of the environmental parameters of the zone and datarepresentative of desired temperature for the zone via the wirelesstemperature controller. The method further includes the step ofwirelessly transmitting the collected data from the wireless temperaturecontroller to the control box. The method further includes the step ofprocessing the collected data to determine a corresponding controlsignal. The method further includes the step of wirelessly transmittingthe control signal from the control box to the damper assembly. Themethod further includes the step of actuating damper assembly operation,in response to the control signal, using energy generated by the energyharvesting device.

The systems and methods described herein permit wireless control of HVACsystems via various wireless communications devices. The disclosure alsoprovides for an HVAC system that utilizes “green energy” damperassemblies which convert air flow generated within routine operationinto electrical power that powers various system components.

These and other advantages and novel features of the present disclosure,as well as details of illustrated embodiments thereof, will be morefully understood from the following description and drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic block diagram of an example embodiment ofa system to wirelessly control environmental parameters of predefinedzones within an environment.

FIG. 2A illustrates an example damper of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2B illustrates an example damper of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 illustrates the example system of FIG. 1 configured in a startopology.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example damper of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 illustrates a portion of an example damper of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 illustrates a portion of an example damper of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 illustrates a block diagram of an example damper of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 illustrates a block diagram of an example temperature controllerof FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 illustrates a block diagram of and control box of FIG. 1.

FIG. 10 illustrates a block diagram of an example homeowner computingdevice of FIG. 1.

FIG. 11 illustrates a block diagram of an example administratorcomputing device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 12 illustrates a schematic diagram of an example computer forimplementing the example homeowner computing device and theadministrator computing device of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Described herein is a customizable system for wirelessly controllingenvironmental parameters of predefined zones. The system combinestemperature data with predefined zone parameters to determine how muchair to deliver to a zone and when to deliver air to a zone. It should beappreciate that, although the system is described herein with respect toforced air systems, the system may also be applied to water distributionsystems for heating and cooling. It should be appreciated that, althoughtemperature measurements are referenced through the description, othersuitable parameters such as humidity may also be measured, monitored,and/or controlled.

FIG. 1 illustrates a schematic block diagram of an example embodiment ofa system 100 to wirelessly control environmental parameters ofpredefined zones 102A and 102B (hereinafter referred to as “zone” or“zones” 102″) within a first environment, in accordance with variousaspects of the present disclosure. A zone 102 may comprise a portion ofa large room, a separate room, or other connected areas in a house orother building, for example. A zone 102 may also be defined by a time ofday. For example, a bedroom zone 102 may only be dynamically controlledat night when the bedroom is in use, and left closed off during the daywhen the bedroom is not in use. Similarly, an office building orrestaurant not used at night may be closed off at certain hours of thenight and dynamically controlled during the day. It should beappreciated that although the example system 100 is illustrated towirelessly control environmental parameters of a first predefined zone102A and a second predefined zone 102B, the example system 100 can beconfigured to wirelessly control any suitable number of zones 102.

It should be appreciated that controlling temperatures in a configurablezone may be additionally advantageous in that static pressure buildupmay be preventable. In particular, to prevent static buildup in a room,a zone may be configured in such a way as to prevent a certain group orgroups of dampers from all being closed at the same time, which mayotherwise result in static pressure buildup if they were all closed atthe same time.

The system 100 further includes at least one wireless air damper 104Aand 104B associated with each of the zones 102A and 102B respectively(hereinafter referred to as “damper” or “dampers” 104). The damper 104is configured to regulate the flow of air inside an air duct of anassociated zone 102.

In accordance with various embodiments of the present disclosure, thedamper 104 may be a wireless damper that is powered by an energy capturedevice in combination with an associated rechargeable energy storagedevice (not shown). The damper 104 may be electromechanical, pneumatic,or any other type of suitable damper. In some examples, damper 104 mayarticulate via a shape memory alloy.

The system 100 further includes temperature controllers 106A and 106Bassociated with each of the zones 102A and 102B respectively(hereinafter referred to as “temperature controller” or “temperaturecontrollers” 106). The temperature controllers 106 serve as userinterfaces capable of setting a temperature in a corresponding zone 102.Thus, a first temperature controller 106A may be configured to providean interface for adjusting the temperature in a first zone 102A while asecond temperature controller 106B may be configured to provide aninterface for adjusting the temperature in a second zone 102B. In oneexample, temperature controllers 106 are portable and wireless andtherefore may be moved according to user needs. For example, a user maymove the temperature controller 106 to a couch while watching TV toenable the user to adjust the temperature in the zone 102 while watchingTV. Thus, the temperature controller 106 may monitor, and in turncontrol, the temperature near the user in particular instead of a fixlocation in a room or zone. In another example, a user may move thetemperature controller 106 to a fixed location within the zone 102 whileaway from the zone 102 to prevent unauthorized access. In one example,the temperature controller 106 may be configured to be mountable on awall or otherwise secured to a fixed location within the zone 102.

The temperature controller 106 is configured to monitor the temperaturein a zone and to display the temperature via an interface and also toreceive input from a user about desired temperature. Desired input maybe input, for example, via an interface at the temperature controller106. It should be appreciated that the user may also input a desiredtemperature via an alternative interface such as a remote computingdevice. As mentioned below, the temperature controller 106 may also beconfigured to monitor humidity in a zone and display informationindicative of the same, and also receive input from a user about adesired humidity (i.e., whether to run a humidification cycle or adehumidification cycle). In even other embodiments, the temperaturecontroller 106 may include other types of sensors to measure air qualityin a zone and/or the presence of certain gases. For example, thetemperature controller 106 may include a sensor configured to detectcarbon monoxide, or a gas leak, or smoke, etc. In this manner, thesystem 100 may alert (e.g., an audible and/or visual alarm) the user tothe dangerous condition (i.e., carbon monoxide and/or a gas leak) suchthat the user may take preventative action, such as exiting thezone/home, addressing the leak, opening windows, etc. In addition, thesystem 100 may monitor the building or one or more zones thereof forother parameters such as allergens, light, sound, etc. Moreover, thesystem 100 may be configured to take preventative action in suchsituations, for example, by alerting authorities and/or opening a ventto the outside environment to bring in outside air and/or clean, freshair.

The temperature controller 106 is operatively connected to a control box108 and configured to wirelessly communicate the zone temperature anddesired temperature to the control box 108 and to request service at thezone 102. For example, zone service may include any of a heating call, acooling call, a humidification call, a dehumidification call, and afan-only call, in accordance with an embodiment of the presentdisclosure. The control box 108 is further operatively coupled to thedamper 104 and configured to adjust the position of the damper 104 basedon the received information from the temperature controller 106. Forexample, the damper 104 may be adjusted a fully closed position 202, asillustrated in FIG. 2A, in order to block all or a majority of air frompassing through inside a duct, or the damper 104 may be adjusted to afully open position 204, as illustrated in FIG. 2B, in order to allowthe maximum amount of air to pass through inside the duct.

Once a desired temperature in a zone associated with the temperaturecontroller 106 is reached, the temperature controller 106 maycommunicate such information to the control box 108 so that the controlbox 108 may in turn adjust the damper 104 position accordingly ifnecessary. In one example, the control box 108 may determine that thesystem 100 may be experiencing a problem if a measured temperature at atemperature controller is not reaching a desired temperature and informa homeowner or a contractor of the potential problem. For example, if atemperature controller 106 is broken or removed from an associated zone,it will not be able to accurately measure the temperature in itsassigned zone. In such a scenario, the control box 108 may notify ahomeowner of the problem and also either automatically close and openthe damper 104 associated with the assigned zone where a problem isdetected or rely on a wired backup temperature sensor to determine whento close the damper 104. In some examples, the system 100 may beconfigured to selectively condition one or more zones as needed whileminimizing conditioning in other zones that don't need it, therebyproviding energy savings and reducing hot and cold spots and temperaturefluctuations between zones. For example, each of the zones may include atemperature sensors (e.g., in the temperature controller 106) and, basedon temperature readings from the various zone, the control box 108 mayidentify which zones do and do not need heating, cooling, and/or aircirculation. The control box 108 may then send instructions to thedampers 104 associated with the identified zones causing them to open orclose (partially or fully) as needed to achieve the needed heating,cooling, and/or air flow. Thus, the control box 108 may control thedampers 104 to direct air flow to certain zones while minimizing (oreven ceasing) air flow to other zones.

The control box 108, at the heart of the system 100, may be hardwiredinto a centralized location, or be of a portable wireless variety asdescribed herein. In one example, the control box 108 may be configuredas a micro access point or a Wi-Fi station, which may result in costsavings since a separate wireless access point 112 may not be required.In one example, the outer shell of the control box 108 is comprised of asuitable combination metal or other durable material to prevent damageto the inner components of the control box 108 as well as injectionmolded plastic to limit wireless signal attenuation. In one example, thecontrol box 108 may be configured to be opened up in order to allowaccess to the inside of the control box 108 for maintenance and repairpurposes.

Referring back to FIG. 1, the control box 108 is further communicativelycoupled to one or more components associated with heating and cooling(“HVAC”) equipment 110 such a heat pump, a furnace, a refrigerationevaporator, an electric resistance heater, or other suitable auxiliarycomponents and equipment. The control box 108 is operationally connectedto the HVAC equipment 110 via a relay connector or other suitable wiredor wireless connector such that the control box 108 is configured tocontrol the HVAC equipment 110. In some examples, the HVAC equipment 110may be utilized to dehumidify. For example, if humidity falls below auser desired value, the heat from the HVAC equipment 110 may be turnedon to dehumidify; whereas, if humidity rises above such user desiredlevel, the cooling from the HVAC equipment 110 may be utilized toextract moisture and thereby dehumidify. In other examples, a heating orcooling call is not needed to humidify or dehumidify. In these otherexamples, the HVAC equipment 110 may include a humidifier and/ordehumidifier and the user may simply initiate a dehumidifying and/orhumidifying cycle on-demand. In these latter examples, the user mayassess whether to initiate such on-demand humidity cycle based onhumidity measurements. The humidity measurements may be taken from oneor more locations in the home and then averaged to provide the user anaverage humidity level for the home such that they may control thehumidity in the entire home; however, in some examples, zone specifichumidity measurements may be provided to the user such that the user maycontrol the humidity in one or more specific zones rather than theentire home. To measure humidity, one or more humidity sensors may belocated throughout the home, for example, in one or more separate zones.In some examples, the temperature controllers 106 may be configured tomeasure humidity.

System 100 further may include a wireless outdoor temperature sensor(hereinafter referred to as “OA Sensor”) 114 and a wireless leaving airtemperature sensor (hereinafter referred to as “LAT”) 116 incommunication with the control box 108. The OA sensor 114 and LAT 116provide temperature data to control box 108 for optimizing the closedloop transfer functions of the complete HVAC installation, as well forprotecting the system 100 from overheating or freezing. The system 100may further include a wired failsafe temperature sensor 118 incommunication with the control box 108 and configured to provide thecontrol box 108 with ambient indoor temperature data in the event of awireless connectivity problem which would protect the system 100 fromfreezing. In another example, a return air temperature may be used as anapproximation of the ambient indoor temperature. In one example, the OAsensor 114 and LAT 116 help provide protection against equipment back-uplockout. In one example, the OA sensor 114 and LAT 116 assist in duelfuel balancing and equipment staging. In some examples, the system 100includes an economy mode or setting where outside air is brought intothe building to cool (or heat) instead of utilizing the HVAC equipment110 to drive temperature. For example, the building may have an outsidevent configured to bring outside air into the building (or one or morezones thereof) when opened. The outside vent may include a damper suchas damper 104 and, when running the system 100 in the economy mode, theOA sensor 114 may measure outside air temperature and the control box108 may direct the damper 104 of the outside vent to open when theoutdoor temperature is sufficient to cool or heat the building (or zonesthereof) to the user desired temperature. Not only will this economymode save energy, but it will also input fresh air in the building orone or more zones thereof. Thus, outdoor air measured by the OA sensor114 may be utilized to control the indoor temperature of the building.

The system 100 further includes a homeowner computing device 120configured to enable a user or homeowner to wirelessly access thecontrol box 108 and to control the system 100, either directly while athome and within range of the control box 108, or remotely while awayfrom home by connecting to the home wireless access point 112, via theInternet 126. The system 100 further includes an administrator computingdevice 122 configured to enable a contractor or other suitable systemsadministrator to wirelessly access the control box 108 and to performinitial setup and future troubleshooting and maintenance of system 100.In one example, administrator computing device 122, is restricted toonly accessing the control box 108 while at the home and connected tothe system's 100 wireless network, which is distinct from a home'swireless network. This restricts the administrator's access and does notrequire granting of access to a home's wireless network to theadministrator. In another example, the administrator computing device122 may be granted access to the control box 108 remotely as well,either directly via a cellular network of control box 108 or via asecure connection through a home's router. In some examples, the system100 is configured to integrate with and/or connect to various smart homesystems and/or devices. For example, the system 100 may connect to hubssuch as Google Home, Amazon Alexa, Amazon Echo, etc. In these examples,the user may control the system 100 with voice commands (and/or motioncommand such as sign language) received by the smart home systems ordevices. Here, the user may tell the smart home system/device to raiseor lower the temperature (or address another parameter in the buildingand/or zone), which in turn transmits the command to the control box 108such that the action or adjustment is performed. However, in someembodiments, the system 100 may be configured to receive and respond toa user's voice commands without a smart home system and/or device. Insome examples, the system 100 is configured to integrate with and/orconnect to various home or building automation systems or devices, suchas those of Crestron Electronics, Inc., Control4 Corporation, SavantSystems LLC, etc. For example, the system 100 may be connected to avoice activated remote control, such as the Savant “Pro Remote” orAmazon Alexa, for adjusting the indoor environment via voice command,and such devices may be used to send a signal to the system 100 toadjust temp in any zone upon receiving voice command from the user.

It should be appreciated that the homeowner computing device 120 and theadministrator computing device 122 may be any suitable computing devicesuch as a hard-wired desktop or laptop personal computer or a portablewireless electronic device—such as a mobile phone, laptop computer,and/or tablet computer—utilizing a software application (cloud, website,and/or device based) configured to monitor and respond to environmentalfactors received from the system 100. The homeowner computing device 120and the administrator computing device 122 may consist of dedicatedsoftware and can operate on computers utilizing Windows™, Mac™, Linux™,or any other operating system and may use a private intranet or publicwebsite to access the network. The administrator computing device inparticular 122 may be used by an installation worker duringconfiguration and HVAC system setup, for example, while the homeownercomputing device may provide users with information about zoneenvironmental conditions and HVAC system status and permit users torequest changes to environmental conditions in one or more zones in thestructure through an interface system. As described below, theadministrator computing device 122 may also be used by an energysupplier to control heating and cooling in one or more zones.

In some embodiments, other home or building automation devices—such assecurity, lighting, curtains, blinds, door bells, or other functions—maybe controlled via the homeowner computing device 120 and theadministrator computing device 122. In some examples where the buildingis outfitted with remote controlled valves and energy harvestingtechnologies, the system 100 may control other building parametersautomatically and/or via user input. For example, hot water pipes and/orradiant heating in one or more zones may include Zigbee radio-controlledvalves that the may be controlled via the homeowner computing device 120and the administrator computing device 122. In such embodiments, theZigbee radio-controlled valves may be hard wired to the building's powersource or may instead include energy harvesting or renewable energytechnology, or combinations thereof. Also, the system 100 may beintegrated into a building's geo-thermal (if any) such that a user maymonitor and/or control the geo-thermal system, for example, via thehomeowner computing device 120 and the administrator computing device122.

System 100 further includes a remote computer data server 124 in thecloud, accessible via the Internet 126. The computer data server 124 isconfigured to receive and store data from the control box 108. Forexample, the computer data server 124 may store data relating to theHVAC usage of a homeowner. Such data may be beneficial for analyzingtrends and making recommendations to the homeowner. In one example, thecomputer data server 124 may further be configured to perform suchcalculations and analysis based on received data and to providerecommendations or other suitable reports to the homeowner or to otherauthorized parties. In one example, only the homeowner computing device120 may be configured to access the data stored by the computer dataserver 124 while in other examples, other suitable computing devices maybe granted access to the stored data. In one example, the computer dataserver 124 may further be configured to be capable of communicatingalerts or messages to the homeowner computing device 120, if for examplethe system 100 is malfunctioning or with other suitable information. Insome examples, the homeowner's energy supplier may be granted access tothe computer data server 124 for inputting historical data, analyzingusage data, etc. In these example, the system 100 may be configured toprovide energy conservation tips to the homeowner.

It should be appreciated that network communication between thecomponents of system 100 can occur via analog or digital signals, withor without the use of a master or coordinator, and can createrelationships that can include master/slave, peer-to-peer, or acombination of both. In addition, although specific components of system100 have been described herein, it is to be understood that the numberand arrangement of such system 100 components can be capped or scalable,that interoperability between components may or may not require bridginghardware, and that the network may be publicly or privately sharedwithin a variable geometric spatial scope but may or may not communicatewith other networks.

It should be further appreciated that the network topology for thesystem 100 communication control system may consist of variouscombinations of wired and/or wireless mediums. For wired connections,the control box 108 may transfer communications over, by way ofnon-limiting examples, twisted pair, coaxial, fiber optic, or ITU-T G.hncomponents, and may be interoperable with other networks via a gatewayusing BACnet or LonTalk protocols. For wireless connections,communications may occur, again by way of non-limiting example, via openor proprietary satellite, cellular, radio, infrared and/or otherwireless personal area network protocols such as ZigBee™ Bluetooth™,Wi-Fi, Z-Wave™ or EnOcean™. The topological layout may be open (i.e.,Mesh™ or Star™) as with the geographical scale (i.e., LAN, PAN, WAN).FIG. 3 illustrates one example in which the control box 108 isconfigured to control multiple zones 302A-H by communicating withrespective dampers and temperature controllers in each of the zones302A-H in a star topology. Such a start topology may be beneficial inthat the control box 108 may communicate directly with each of the zones302A-H. Thus, the control box 108 is having difficulty communicatingwith a first zone, such a malfunction will not interfere with thecontrol box's 108 ability to communicate with the remaining zones. Itshould be understood that numerous combinations of wired and wirelesssystem arrangements are contemplated to fall within the scope of thisdisclosure.

In one example, the control box 108 is configured to control a subset ofdampers 104 based damper 104 associations with the multiple zones302A-H. As described herein, the control box 108 may also be configuredto control other devices or systems (or a subset of the same) associatedwith the multiple zones 302A-H, for example, security systems (andcomponents thereof), fire alarm systems, home automation systems,lighting systems, curtain and/or blinds systems, door lock systems, dooropening or closing actuator systems, garage door systems, hot waterand/or radiant heating valve systems, geothermal systems, indoor and/oroutdoor sprinkler systems, etc.

In various embodiments of the present disclosure, portions, or all of,the system 100 equipment are controlled via wireless communications. Inone embodiment particularly suited for retrofitting an existing HVACsystem with an at least partially wireless control configuration, thecontrol box 108 is hard-wired into a centralized location but alsooperationally connected to home router and access point 112. In anotherembodiment, the control box 108 may have integrated wirelesscommunications components adapted to communicate wirelessly with othercomponents of system 100 without requiring connection to or interferencewith a home wireless network.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example damper 104 in more detail. Damper 104includes a rail assembly 402 for providing support to the damper 104 andfor securing and sealing the damper on an air duct. The damper 104further includes a damper blade assembly 404 configured to regulate theamount of air passing through an air duct. In particular, the damperblade assembly 404 prevents substantially all or a portion of airflowing inside an air duct to pass through, depending on the damperblade assembly 404 orientation. The damper 104 further includes a dampermodule 406 configured to control the orientation of the damper bladeassembly 404. In particular, the damper module 406 is configured tocommunicate with the control box 108 and to open and close the damperblade assembly 404 based on received instructions from the control box108.

In one example, the damper module 406 is able to determine the positionof the damper blade assembly 404 based on the amount of power beingdrawn by a motor to open and close the damper blade assembly 404. Forexample, a motor may require more energy to move the damper bladeassembly 404 from a completely open state to a partially open state ascompared to the amount of energy that may be required to move the damperblade assembly 404 from a partially open state to a closed state. Thus,the damper module 406 may translate the required energy into anapproximation of the current state of the damper blade assembly 404. Inanother example, the damper module 406 is able to determine the positionof the damper blade assembly 404 based on data received from a HallEffect sensor. For example, a Hall Effect sensor may be used to measurethe magnetic field produced by a magnet in a drive shaft and, with thisinformation, the position of the damper blade assembly 404 may bedetermined and adjustments to the position of the damper blade assembly404 may be made, for example, to open (fully or proportionally) or close(fully or proportionally) it to control the volume of air flow.

The damper 104 is further configured to generate and store its own powerbut also rely on a battery power source or an external hard wired sourcewhen needed. Thus, the damper 104 further includes an optional scavengerassembly 408 for harvesting energy from the air that passes by thedamper 104 inside the air duct. In particular, the scavenger assembly408 includes an impeller that rotates as air passes by. The rotation ofthe impeller in the scavenger assembly 408 is translated into energy andstored by the scavenger module 410. It should be appreciated that othersuitable energy harvesting techniques may be used in place of a rotatingimpeller. It should further be appreciated that an energy harvesting maysupplement energy requirements rather than providing all of requiredenergy. In one example, the scavenger assembly 408 or the scavengermodule 410 may be optional and removable.

In one example, the scavenger assembly 408 may consist of a wind-turbinetype device that comprises one or more of a blade, rotor, shaft, pitchsystem, gear box, and generator to turn wind forces into wind-generatedelectrical power. In one example, the scavenger assembly 408 may haveblades that are spoon shaped or airfoil propeller shaped. In oneexample, the scavenger assembly 408 may arrange turbine components on avertical or horizontal axis in the form of upwind, downwind, shrouded,Savonius, flapping panel, or Darrieus or Giromill type devices. In oneexample, the scavenger assembly 408 may utilize gearless orreduction-geared gear assemblies. In one example, the scavenger assembly408 may use electromagnetic induction. In other embodiments, thescavenger assembly 408 may use movement or pressure within systemductwork to capture energy for storage by the scavenger module 410. Instill other embodiments, the scavenger module 410 may be recharged viathe scavenger assembly 408 using thermally driven (thermoelectric),solar-powered (photovoltaic solar cells; concentrated solar power in theform of a Fresnel reflector, stirring dish, power tower, or other solarpowering arrangements known in the art), radio scavenging, orrectenna/nantenna type harvesting technologies.

In the event that the scavenger module 410 does not have enough storedenergy generated from the scavenger assembly 408, the scavenger moduleincludes a battery backup which can be used to power the damper 104. Thebattery may be of various combinations of chemicals such as alkaline,lead-acid, nickel cadmium, nickel metal hydride, nickel iron, nickelhydrogen, nickel zinc, lithium ion, lithium ion polymers, lithium-air,lithium cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, lithium sulfur, lithiumtitanate, sodium ion, thin film lithium, zinc bromide, vanadium redox,sodium-sulfur, molten salt, silver-oxide, or oxide semiconductors. Inone example, the battery may be rechargeable.

In one example, the scavenger module 410 may be configured to operatethe damper 104 in one of three modes depending on how much energy hasbeen generated by the scavenger assembly 408 and stored and how muchenergy is currently being generated. For example, in a first mode, thescavenger module 410 may operate the damper 104 in a full energyscavenging mode, meaning the damper 104 is only being powered by energybeing harvested by the scavenger assembly 408 or energy stored by thescavenger module 410 that was previously generated by the scavengerassembly 408. In this mode, the airspeed must meet a minimum predefinedrate. For example, the airspeed may need to be at least 600 feet/minutefor the scavenger module 410 to operate in the first mode. Air speed maybe determined, by example, with a velocity sensor or a hand-heldanemometer. In a second mode, the scavenger module 410 may operate thedamper 104 in battery mode, meaning the damper 104 is powered entirelyusing the battery backup. This mode may be required if the air speeddrops below a predefined threshold. For example, the scavenger module410 may operate in battery mode when airspeed drops below 200feet/minute. In a third mode, when the airspeed in the air duct is abovethe battery power mode threshold but below the full energy scavengingmode, the scavenger module 410 may operate the damper 104 in a hybridmode using a combination of power from the battery backup and powergenerated by the scavenger assembly 408. In one example, thefunctionality of a damper 104 may be limited or restricted whileoperating in battery power mode or in hybrid mode. For example, while adamper 104 may function as a wireless router to facilitate wirelesscommunication within system 100, the damper 104 may be restricted to anend device only when operating in battery power mode. It should beappreciated that the scavenger module 410 may be configured to operatein other suitable modes using various combinations of energy sources.For example, a fourth mode may include operating using an externalhardwired energy source. In some examples, the damper 104 may functionas a router or an end node regardless of how it is being powered, and inthese examples the damper 104 may be configured to automatically detectwhether it should operate as a router or an end node. For example, thedamper 104 may be configured to automatically operate as a router whenit is plugged into a power source (e.g., a 24 Volt power source). Onceconfigured as a router, the damper 104 may operate in concert with theother damper devices allowing them to use the router feature to send andreceive signals from the control box 108, and in some examples, theZigbee chip in the dampers 104 does this automatically by “finding theeasiest path” to send data to and from each other.

In one example, the impeller of the scavenger assembly 408 may functionas an anemometer for determining actual speed of air passing through theair duct. The scavenger module 410 may be configured to store thisinformation and communicate the information to the control box 108. Inone example, the determined air speed may be used to select an operatingpower mode.

In one example, the energy generated by the scavenger assembly 408 mayalso provide power to the system control box 108, or other components ofsystem 100. It should be appreciated that energy generated by thescavenger assembly 408 may also be used to power suitable componentsoutside of the system 100. For example, the generated energy may be suedto power a UV light for bacteria cleansing.

It should be appreciated that the damper 104 may be of different typessuch as, for example, an electric damper driven by an electric motorthat can be wirelessly activated or a pump that may be activated bywireless control signals to provide pneumatic pressure that opens andcloses the damper 104.

It should be appreciated that the disclosure should not be limited toany particular damper assembly arrangement. Rather, any damper 104 thatis capable of sealing or otherwise restricting air flow through an HVACductwork or air flow enclosure is intended to fall within the scope ofthe following arrangements. By way of non-limiting examples, mechanicalpower and transmission for damper operations may use solenoids and anair piston, bladder, diaphragm, or electrical motor with a gear box, forexample. Linkage for mechanical transmissions may also consist of beltsand pulleys, an axle, or a linear actuator. It should be furtherappreciated that the impeller of the scavenger assembly 408 may be ofany shape chosen by a person of sound engineering judgment, includingbut not limited to round, oval, triangular, rectangular, pentagonal, orhexagonal. The shape of the blade may be accomplished by foldable orexpandable movement.

In a preferred embodiment, the damper 104 is of a wirelessconfiguration, in that it does not require conventional wiring to thestructure's central electrical system and does not need to be hardwiredinto control box 108 in order to receive control communications.

In other embodiments of the invention, the damper module 406 may also beadapted to receive and/or process wireless control signals forwardedfrom the temperature controller 102 or the control box 108. Controlsignals received by the damper module 406 may prompt a request fortransmission of power contained in the scavenger module 410 that issufficient to actuate the damper blade assembly 404 to open or close, tovarying degrees, depending on the amount of air flow required to bring azone within desired environmental temperature or humidity ranges. Thedamper module 406 may optionally terminate actuation of the damper bladeassembly 404 when control signals received indicate desiredenvironmental conditions have been achieved.

It should be appreciated that an existing HVAC system may be retrofittedfor wireless control of zone heating and cooling using the system 100described herein. In particular, the damper 104 may be adapted to beretrofitted into existing ductwork. It should be further appreciatedthat in some instances, installation of the damper 104 may requireportions of the ductwork to be removed while in other embodiments, thedamper 104 may be inserted through an unmodified ductwork and/orregister boot. In some examples, the damper 104 may be may be insertedbelow or behind the register and, in these examples, the scavengerassembly 408 thereof (if any) may be similarly positioned relative tothe register such that it is able to harvest energy from air passingthrough the duct work even when the register is closed. In someexamples, the damper 104 may be integrated into the register unit, suchthat the register includes the damper and (optionally) the scavengerassembly 408. In this manner, installation of the damper 104 isfacilitated as it is installed with the register and without needing aseparate installation step. The system 100 may also be suitable for newconstruction homes and buildings where the HVAC system may be designedto work with the system 100.

FIG. 5 illustrates an expanded view of a damper module 406. The dampermodule 406 includes a housing 502 inside which is disposed a damperprinted circuit board 506 coupled to an LED indicator light pipe 504. Anadjustment knob 508 for assisting with installation and removal iscoupled to an actuator nut 512. The adjustment knob 508 may further beused for manual actuation in the event of a malfunction. Gearboxbearings 516 are disposed on either side of the actuator nut 512. Thedrive motor 514, coupled to the drive gear 518 which is operationallycoupled with the actuator nut 512, drives movement in the damper bladeassembly 404. An actuator mount 510, actuator retainer 522, and motorretention spring 520 provides support for the actuator motor 514 insidethe housing 502 which is sealed by the damper module cap 524. The motorretention spring 520 also acts as a spring-back when adjustment knob 508is used during manual actuation.

FIG. 6 illustrates an expanded view of a scavenger module 410. Thescavenger module 410 includes a housing 608 to support a battery cellcradle 606. A battery cover 602 secures one or more batteries 604 in thebattery cradle 606. The scavenger module 410 further includes a powerconnector 610. The scavenger module 410 further includes a printedcircuit board 612 for facilitating operation of the scavenger module410. For example, the printed circuit board 612 is configured to receiveand store energy harvested from the impeller. The printed circuit board612 is also configured to manage distribution of power. The printedcircuit board 612 is secured to the housing 608 by a cap 614. It shouldbe appreciated that, although the scavenger module 404 is illustrated toinclude a single printed circuit board 612, the functionality of theprinted circuit board 612 may also be separated into two or more printedcircuit boards.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the example damper 104 of FIG. 1. Thedamper 104 includes a microcontroller 702 for facilitating communicationand control of the damper 104 with control box 108. In one example, themicrocontroller 702 is an 88MZ1000 manufactured by Marvel. However, itshould be appreciated that any suitable microcontroller can be used. Adamper actuator 712 receives control signals from the microcontroller702 instructing the damper actuator 712 when to open and close thedamper in order to allow air to pass by or to block air. In one example,the microcontroller 702 also may receive suitable data from the damperactuator 712. For example, a sensor coupled to the damper actuator 712may measure torque generated by passing air and communicate the measureddata to the microcontroller 702.

In one example, the microcontroller 702 may be configured to detectcurrent spikes while the damper is opening or closing to prevent thedamper from actuating when current spikes are detected.

The damper 104 may be configured to determine the position of the damperblade of damper actuator 712 and/or to control operation of the damperactuator 712 via a Hall Effect sensor. For example, one or more HallEffect sensors may be coupled to the damper actuator 712 that moves thedamper blade and be configured to communicate with the microcontroller702. Here, the microcontroller 702 receives feedback signals from theHall Effect sensors, where such feedback is indicative or representativeof the position of the damper blade that is coupled to the damperactuator 712. Using this feedback, the microcontroller 702 may determinea position or orientation of the damper blade (of the damper actuator712), for example, by correlating the feedback information to an actualdamper position via a look up table or mathematical relationship or thelike. The microcontroller 702 may also be configured to controloperation of the damper actuator 712 via the sensed position of thedamper blade. For example, the microcontroller 702 may determine thespeed, distance, and/or direction at which the damper actuator 712drives the damper blade via data received from the Hall Effect sensors.

A power management module 704 manages the collection and distribution ofpower. For example, the power management module 704 is configured toreceive power from an energy harvesting device 708 as well as from arechargeable battery 710. The power management module 704 alsodistributes power based on either the harvested energy or energyproduced by the rechargeable battery to the controller and to the damperactuator 712. In one example, the power management module 704 mayfurther be coupled to and receive power from an AC power supply 710.

The damper 104 includes a pushbutton 722 to enable a contractor oradministrator to initiate a communication with the control box 108 thatwill help identify the damper 104 for configuration purposes. The damper104 also includes an LED indicator 714 that is configured to blink acorresponding zone color which can further assist a contractor oradministrator in configuring the system 100 and setting up zones. In oneexample, the LED indicator 714 may keep blinking for a predefined timeperiod such as 5 minutes to give the contractor sufficient time toidentify the damper 104. In another example, the LED indicator 714 maykeep blinking until the pushbutton 712 is again pushed. In one example,a buzzer 716 may provide a contractor with an audible notification whichmay further assist with identifying the damper 104 during configuration.It should be appreciated that either an audible or a visual notificationmay be used as needed, or a combination of both. In addition toassisting with configuration, the push button 722, the LED indicator714, and the buzzer 716 may further assist the contractor whentroubleshooting the system 100.

In one example, the damper 104 may further include one or moreconnectors for coupling to the microcontroller 702 for maintenance,debugging, configuration, and so on. In one example, the damper 104includes a Joint Test Action Group (“JTAG”) connector 718 and aUniversal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (“UART”) connector 720. Inone example, the damper 104 may further include an encoder forconverting signals into digital form.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an example temperature controller 106 ofFIG. 1. The temperature controller 106 includes a microcontroller 802for facilitating communication and control of the temperature controller106 with control box 108. In one example, the microcontroller 802 is an88MZ1000 manufactured by Marvel. However, it should be appreciated thatany suitable microcontroller can be used. The microcontroller 802includes a wireless onboard antenna to communicate temperature andhumidity data to the control box 108. The microcontroller 802 is furtherconfigured to communicate the temperature and humidity information todisplay 806.

The display 806 is configured to communicate data to a user. Forexample, the display 806 communicates or displays, in addition totemperature and humidity information, battery level, a temperature setpoint as desired by a user, a “heating” icon to indicate a heating mode,a “cooling” icon to indicate a cooling mode, and a “fan” icon toindicate a fan mode. In one example, the display 806 is furtherconfigured to display an icon or text indicating that a user action isrequired via the homeowner computing device 120. In one example, thedisplay 806 is further configured to display an energy saving icon,indicating that due to an energy saving plan, a requested set point isnot available.

In one example, the temperature controller 106 further includes one ormore push buttons for enabling a user to provide input and set atemperature. It should be appreciated that such push buttons may also beprovided via the display 806 using a touch screen interface. In oneexample, the display 806 may be further configured to display a currentzone name.

The temperature controller 106 further includes a battery power supply810 for powering the microcontroller 802. The temperature controller 106further includes a sensor 808 configured to detect the presence of aperson nearby and communicate the information to the microcontroller802. In one example, the microcontroller 802 is configured to maintainthe temperature controller 106 in a sleep mode to conserve the batterypower supply 810 until a person is detected nearby, indicating that theperson may wish to interact with the temperature controller 106. At thatpoint, the microcontroller 802 “wakes up” the temperature controller 106and turns on the display 806 in preparation for interaction with theperson. In another example, the microcontroller 802 is configured tomaintain the display 806 in an active or on state while no person isdetected nearby, displaying current room temperature. Themicrocontroller 802 may be further configured to change the display 806to communicate a “set temperature screen” when a person is detected asbeing nearby.

The temperature controller 106 further includes a pushbutton 812 toenable a contractor or administrator to initiate a communication fromthe temperature controller 106 that will help identify the temperaturecontroller 106 for configuration purposes. In one example, a buzzer 816may provide a contractor with an audible notification which may furtherassist with identifying the temperature controller 106 duringconfiguration. In addition to assisting with configuration, the pushbutton 812 and the buzzer 816 may further assist the contractor whentroubleshooting the system 100.

The temperature controller 106 further includes one or more connectorsfor coupling to the microcontroller 802 for maintenance, debugging,configuration, and so on. In one example, the temperature controller 106includes a Joint Test Action Group (“JTAG”) connector 818 and aUniversal Asynchronous Receiver/Transmitter (“UART”) connector 820.

The temperature controller 106 further includes a “WiFi join” pushbutton814 that enables the administrator computing device 122 to connect tothe control box 108 and enter a router password.

In another example, the temperature controller 106 is configured as asensor without any user input or user output/readout capabilities. Forexample, the temperature controller 106 may be configured to measure oneor more parameters, such as temperature, humidity, presence of a gasessuch as carbon monoxide, light, allergens such as pollen, smoke, etc. tomaintain the building or zones thereof at acceptable levels, which maybe pre-set according to relevant safety standards and/or user definedlevels. Here, the temperature controller 106 may be hard wired to thebuildings power, or may instead be battery powered such as with a coincell or similar device, and/or it may even be configured to be poweredvia solar power.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of and control box 108 of FIG. 1. The controlbox 108 includes a microcontroller 902, including a wirelesscommunication coordinator such as ZigBee, for coordinating wirelesscommunications and managing functionality of the system 100. Inparticular, the microcontroller 902 is configured to receive informationfrom multiple temperature controllers 102 and to provide instructions toassociated dampers 104 based on received information. Themicrocontroller 902 is also configured to provide operating signals toHVAC equipment. Interface connections 906 provide an interface formicrocontroller 902 to send and receive data and various suitable inputsand outputs.

The control box 108 further includes an I/O expander 908 to provideadditional HVAC output lines if needed. In one example, the I/O expander908 is a serial to parallel converter. The control box 108 furtherincludes a power source 910. In one example, the power source 910 may bean AC power source. In another example, the power source 910 may includea rechargeable backup battery.

The control box 108 further includes one or more LEDs 912 for assistinga contractor with troubleshooting and configuration. For example, acombination of LEDs 912, using a combination of colors, may provideindications with respect to whether the wireless network is active,whether the control box 108 is connected to the server 124, whether thevarious sensors are functioning properly, the status of the dampers 104,the status of the temperature controllers 102, and the status of theHVAC equipment 110.

The control box 108 further includes a “WiFi join” pushbutton 914 thatenables the administrator computing device 122 to connect to the controlbox 108 and enter a router password. The control box 108 furtherincludes a “Reset” pushbutton 916 that enables users to restart thecontrol box 108 if necessary. The control box 108 further includes apower source button 918 that enables a contractor to select, upon systemsetup, between an onboard supplied power source 910 and an externalalternate power source.

The control box 108 further includes a settings data store 920 forstoring various system 100 settings. For example, microcontroller 902may receive and store in data store 920 settings received from theadministrator computing device 122 in connection with the initial setupof the system 100. The microcontroller 902 may also receive and store insettings data store 920 settings received from the homeowner computingdevice 120 in connection with user defined preferences. Table 1 lists anexample set of parameters that may be received and stored in settingsdata store 920 as well as a description of the parameter, options forsetting the parameter, and example factory default values for theparameters. It should be appreciated that additional suitable parametersmay be included as necessary.

TABLE 1 Example System Parameters Parameter Description Options FactoryDefault System Name Accepts a string of characters to be used for 16characters Test_System identifying the control box and its associatedcontrol system. Possible string terminators and illegal characters to bedefined. Server Update Time period between Wi-Fi based server updates,in 10-60 Sec 20 Period seconds ZigBee Period Time period of ZigBeecommunications for all 1-300 Sec  5 ZigBee devices except ZigBee OAsensor. Impacts battery life and system response time. Time units areseconds. ZigBee OAT Period Time period of ZigBee communications for theDemo or 1-3 Hours Demo outside air temperature sensor (OA sensor). Demoby integer values mode sets a period of 5 seconds. Standard operatingtimes are 1, 2, or 3 hours. For app temperature updates, it is suggestedto use local weather data rather than the actual OA sensor value, toavoid the perception of a slow sensor. ZigBee Missed Number ofadditional attempts at contacting a 3-10  3 Beacon Retries ZigBee meshnode. Impacts power consumption of system. TC Screen Refresh Time periodbetween temperature controller screen 10-60 Sec 30 Period refresh eventsof the temperature controller, not counting switch interrupt events, inseconds. Temperature Determines the temperature display units.Fahrenheit Fahrenheit Display Celsius TC Data Display Determines theamount and detail of data to be Simple or Detail Detail (supports Styledisplayed on temperature controller screen. Simple = R&D dataTemperature, Battery, and HVAC Equipment gathering and status only.Detail = Temperature, Battery, HVAC troubleshooting) Equipment status,monthly utility bill associated with HVAC setting,. Damper ZigBee Forcesall dampers into ZigBee Router ZR Lock or ZR Lock (for R&D Mode Lockconfiguration. This will burn the most battery across Automatic uses)the board, but will be useful for the R&D pilot, or to supporttroubleshooting. ZR Lock = ZigBee Router Functionality Locked ON,Automatic = ZigBee router or ZigBee End Device functionality, dependingon scavenging strength and power budget. Priority Mode Allows specificmode to interrupt active cycle. Automatic Automatic Priority optionsinclude: Automatic, Heating, Zone Weight Cooling, or Zone WeightPriority. Details to found in Heating definitions section to follow.Cooling Zone 1 Weight Follow the Zone Weight Calculation (below).10-90%, Δ5% 50% Zone 2 Weight Follow the Zone Weight Calculation(below). 10-90%, Δ5% 50% Zone 3 Weight Follow the Zone WeightCalculation (below). 10-90%, Δ5% 50% Zone 4 Weight Follow the ZoneWeight Calculation (below). 10-90%, Δ5% 50% Zone 5 Weight Follow theZone Weight Calculation (below). 10-90%, Δ5% 50% Zone 6 Weight Followthe Zone Weight Calculation (below). 10-90%, Δ5% 50% Zone 7 WeightFollow the Zone Weight Calculation (below). 10-90%, Δ5% 50% Zone 8Weight Follow the Zone Weight Calculation (below). 10-90%, Δ5% 50% Zone9 Weight Follow the Zone Weight Calculation (below). 10-90%, Δ5% 50%Zone 10 Weight Follow the Zone Weight Calculation (below). 10-90%, Δ5%50% Zone 11Weight Follow the Zone Weight Calculation (below). 10-90%,Δ5% 50% Zone 12 Weight Follow the Zone Weight Calculation (below).10-90%, Δ5% 50% Zone X_(1−i) (i = 99) Follow the Zone Weight Calculation(below). 10-90%, Δ5% 50% Weight Minimum On Minimum Zone Weight Requiredto initiate a 0-90%, 5% 25% Stage Threshold Heating/Cooling or Fan callto the HVAC Equipment increments A.H. Stage-Up CFM Stage-up threshold,Y2 output to Air Handler 30-100%, 5% 50% Threshold or W2 to FF Furnaceengaged when threshold % is increments reached. Set the percentage ofductwork you would want to be open before the control board will send aY2 signal to the air handler to increase CFM or W2 signal to furnace toincrease output capacity and CFM. Heat Stage Min leaving air temperaturerequired for comfort at 80-130 degrees F., 100 degrees F. Threshold 30degrees outside air temperature. This set point 1 degree resets by ½degree for every 1 degree change in increments outside air temperature.Sets the minimum supply air temperature in the heating mode. At thefactory default the control board will maintain a 100 degrees F supplyair temperature at 30 degrees F. outdoor temperature. The supply airtemperature will raise or lower ½ degree F. for every 1 degree F. changein outdoor air temperature. Cool Stage Max cooling supply air temp, Y2is energized if this 20-60 degrees F., 55 degrees F. Threshold leavingair temperature is not reached with Y1 1 degree output. Sets the maximumsupply air temperature increments allowable before bringing on secondstage cooling. Does not reset with the outside air temperature sensor.Balance Point - Heat pump operates above BP set point and FF 0-50degrees F., 1 30 degrees F. outside air furnace operates belowset-point. Set the outdoor degree increments temperature temperature atwhich you want to lock the heat or “Lock in Backup sensor pump out andhave the fossil fuel back up to take Heat” for non-heat over on a callfor heat. This setting is overridden by pump applications the “HeatStage Threshold” function. Resistance Aux Heat (Electric ResistanceHeat) will be locked 0-40 degrees F., or 30 degrees F. Lockout - outsideout when the outside air temperature exceeds this “Lock in Aux” to airtemperature setting. Set the outdoor temperature at which you allowelectric aux sensor want to lock out the electric resistance heat. heatstaging regardless of outside air temperature H.P. leaving air Highlimit of heat pump leaving air temperature. 100-125 degrees 120 degreeF. temperature Htg. Set the maximum allowable supply air temperature F.,1 degree F. steps Limit in heat pump mode. Cooling leaving air Coolingleaving air temperature low limit. Set the 34-46 degrees F., 1 42degrees F. temperature Low minimum supply air temperature in the coolingdegree F. steps Temp cycle to prevent the coil from freezing. Type ofBackup Specify type of Aux “Backup” heat. Select the type Electric orFossil Electric Heat of heat that will be initiated when the heat pumpFuel can no longer maintain the setting of te heat stage threshold.Humidification Required Averaged Humidify throughout 0-75% 35%conditioned area Backup Controls G output for fossil fuel heat operationTrue = “W”, True or False True Fan False = “W”, “G”. Select true if thebackup heat source controls the fan internally or false if the controlbox needs to initiate the fan. Dehumidifier Call Required voltage toenergize a dehumidification 0 Volt or 24 Volt 24 Volt Voltage call.(Note: Leave setting at 24 V when not used.) Set to the dehumidificationcontrol voltage output on the dehumidistat control, Y. Secondary PurgeEnd-of-cycle purge time to diffuse residual heating 0-180 seconds, 10 60Seconds Time or cooling. Set the amount of time in seconds to run secondincrements the pump after a cycle to open all dampers. Typically 5seconds per damper. Dehumidification Dehumidification “On Cycle” timelimit to proven 5-15 minutes, 5 10 minutes Cycle Time over-cooling ofspace once cooling set-points are minute increments reached (off cycleis fixed at 10 minutes). Set the maximum “ON” time for dehumidificationcycle to prevent overcooling of the space. The “OFF” cycle is set at afixed time of 10 minutes. Cooling Low Minimum outside air temperaturethat mechanical 20-60, 1 degree F. 35 Ambient Lock-Out cooling isallowed to operate (locks out Y output). increments Set the outdoortemperature at which the cooling will no longer come on. Rev Valve Heatpump rev valve energize in heating or cooling Cooling or Heating CoolingEnergized (Zone 1 HP stat always calls “O” for clg call). Set the modein which the reversing valve is energized. Note: If the heat pumpthermostat has a setting for reversing valve in the configuration mode,set the thermostat to energize the reversing valve in cooling. UseBalance Point Allow Balance Point to be used on all electric True orFalse False for Electric system. True heat pump will shut down when ODTis below Balance Point setting. Demo Mode Demo mode speeds up all HVACtiming sequences True or False False Enable by a factor of 12. Used fordemonstrations and for initial system commissioning. ZigBee and Wi-Fitime bases are unaffected and remain set by the parameter values.Language Permits user to select language. English, Spanish, EnglishSelection French, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, German, etc.

It should be appreciated that the control box 108 may include additionalcomponents as well, such as solenoids, relays, and a power supply forproviding power and/or control air to the various system HVAC elements.For example, relays may be active in the control box 108 to switchelectrical power to the HVAC elements. As another example, to provideair from an air handling unit or pump to one of the air dampers 104, themicrocontroller 902 activates (via an activation signal) a solenoid toswitch air to an air damper 104.

In accordance with one embodiment of the present disclosure, the controlbox 108 may be accessed by an operator to aid the operator in manuallyselecting setting options. Such manual selecting includes the steps ofpowering up the control box 108, displaying a first set of options,selecting at least one of the options from the first set of options,displaying a second set of options, and selecting at least one of theoptions from the second set of options. The process of displaying a nextset of options and selecting from the next set of options may continueuntil all available selections are made. Also, the homeowner computingdevice 120 and the administrator computing device 122 may function as aninput/output indicator by displaying each thermostat call and theservice currently being provided in accordance with an embodiment of thepresent invention. In one example, the administrator computing device122 and the homeowner computing device 120 may be used to access thecontrol box 108 and select such settings options.

In one example, control box 108 may further include a USB (universalserial bus) port. The USB port allows a wireless communications device,for example, a tablet computer, to interface to the control box 108. Inaccordance with an embodiment of the present invention, the control box108 stores a history of operational data (a data log) which may be readout by a computing device via the USB port. Also, in accordance with anembodiment of the present invention, the USB port may be used to allowthe control box 108 to interface with suitable home automation equipment(e.g., a home automation device). The control box 108 is designed withsuitable “hooks” or APIs for integration with home automation packages.Data that may be output via the USB port to a home automation packageinclude the last five events, the current damper states, the currentservice being provided, the current LAT, the current OA sensor, and anycurrent thermostat or sensor requests. The home automation equipment mayinclude a separate device with software that takes the data provided bythe control box 108 and reports the data to a remote user, email, or aweb-based interface, for example. The user may have the capability torespond to the report in a similar manner in order to, for example,change the temperature in the home or turn off part of the HVAC system.The interface between the control box 108 and the home automationequipment may be wireless in accordance with various embodiments of thepresent invention.

Configuration and operation of system 100 may be further appreciated inview of the homeowner computing device 120 and the administratorcomputing device 122. FIG. 10 illustrates a block diagram of an examplehomeowner computing device 120 for enabling a homeowner or other user tointerface with system 100. Homeowner computing device 120 includes asign-in module 1002 for enabling a homeowner to sign in to an account.The sign-in module 1002 also enables a homeowner to sign up for a newaccount if it's the homeowner's first time using the homeowner computingdevice 120. As part of the sign-up process, the sign-in module 1002requires the homeowner to select a wireless home network for accessingthe control box 108. It should be appreciated that, although referencesare made herein with respect to a homeowner, any suitable user withproper access credentials may interface with homeowner computing device120.

The homeowner computing device 120 further includes a dashboard module1004. The dashboard module 1004 provides the homeowner with acentralized view of, and access to, the HVAC system for a home. Forexample, the dashboard module 1004 communicates to the homeowner thecurrent temperature of the home. In one example, the dashboard module1004 accesses weather through a third party service such as Google orYahoo. The dashboard module 1004 further communicates to the homeowner asummary of different defined zones of the home. For example, thedashboard module 1004 displays, for each zone, the temperature in thatparticular zone, whether the zone is currently being heated, cooled, orneither, and whether the zone is locked or unlocked indicating whetherthe temperature of the zone can be adjusted. The dashboard module 1004further enables a homeowner to select a specific zone and access moredetailed information about the selected zone. The dashboard module 1004further enables a homeowner to review the currently set heating andcooling schedule and to select a different defined schedule. Thedashboard module 1004 further enables the homeowner to select a definedschedule in order to view more details or to make edits. The dashboardmodule 1004 also provides a homeowner with an option of creating a newschedule.

The homeowner computing device 120 further includes a zone module 1006.In response to a homeowner selecting a zone via the dashboard module1004, the zone module 1006 communicates an overview of the selected zoneto the homeowner. For example, the zone module 1006 displays thetemperature of the zone as well as heat and cool set points. In oneexample, both the heat and cool set points are displayed while the zonemode is set to auto, only the heating set point is displayed when thezone mode is set to heat, and the only the cool set point is displayedwhen the zone mode is set to cool. In one example, the zone module 1006is further configured to display a humidity level for a selected zone.In one example, the zone module 1006 is further configured to display astatus of the zone. In one example, the zone module 1006 is furtherconfigured to display the assigned schedule for the zone. For example,the zone module 1006 may be configured to display “30 minutes untilcooling down to 65 F” if the zone is schedule to be cooled down to atemperature of 65 F in 30 minutes. The zone module 1006 also enables ahomeowner to return to an overview of all of the zones provided bydashboard module 1004.

In one example, the zone module 1006 enables a homeowner to quicklyswitch to viewing information about another zone without accessing thedashboard module 1004. For example, the zone module 1006 may enable thehomeowner to swipe to the left or right on a touch screen of thehomeowner computing device 120 in order to change zone views.

It should be appreciated that “communicating” as used herein may includetransmitting data to a display of the homeowner computing device 120 fora homeowner to view. In addition, “communicating” may also include othersuitable forms or conveying information, such as audibly, by storing andcommunicating data electronically, and so on.

In one example, the zone module 1006 enables the homeowner to initiate a“zone hold” which occurs when a homeowner changes the set point toanything other than a set point in the schedule. When a hold occurs, thezone module 1006 changes the status of a zone to default hold. In oneexample, the default hold is a hold that lasts until the next scheduledprofile is assigned. In one example, the zone module 1006 enables ahomeowner to change the hold option. For example, the zone module 1006may enable the homeowner to select one of several hold optionsincluding: “hold until next schedule,” “hold for an amount of time,”where the time is configurable, or “hold indefinitely.” In addition, thezone module 1006 may enable the homeowner to cancel the hold and revertback to the selected schedule.

The homeowner computing device 120 further includes a scheduling module1008 configured to enable a homeowner to select a schedule to run for azone. The scheduling module 1008 may provide one or more predefinedschedules for a homeowner to choose from. For example, the schedulingmodule 1008 may provide a predefined “primary” schedule which may be aseven-day schedule and may be the most commonly selected schedule. Thescheduling module 1008 may further provide a predefined “away” schedulefor vacations and business trips, for example. The scheduling module1008 may also provide a predefined “energy savings schedule” which mayinclude parameters designed to maintain a certain comfort level in azone while saving energy costs.

The scheduling module 1008 further enables a homeowner to view detailsabout schedules, to edit existing schedules, and to add new schedules.For example, the scheduling module 1008 may enable a homeowner to definespecific days associated with a schedule, specific temperatures forcertain defined times of the day such as “morning”, “away,” “arrivehome,” and “sleep.” The scheduling module 1008 enables the homeowner toset different schedules for individual zones or to set a single scheduleand apply it to all zones.

The homeowner computing device 120 further includes a messaging module1010. The messaging module 1010 is configured to communicate varioustypes of messages to a homeowner that may be generated by the system100. For example, messaging module 1010 may be configured to receive“information” messages which are for information purposes only andrequire no action. In some examples, the messaging module 1010 may beconfigured to alert the end user about up-coming scheduled maintenanceand/or appointments regarding the same. Messaging module 1010 mayfurther be configured to receive “warning” messages which may requiretroubleshooting by the homeowner. The messaging module 1010 may furtherbe configured to receive “error” messages which may require attention bya contractor. The messaging module 1010 may further be configured toreceive “energy tip” messages which may inform the homeowner aboutpotential ways to conserve energy. In one example, such “energy tip”messages may be generated by the computer data server 124 based onhistorical temperature data or other historical data and/or may suggestto the end user an adjustment based on such data (e.g., increase ordecrease heating or cooling). The messaging module 1010 may further beconfigured to receive “success” messages indicating a contractor'ssuccessful visit or system upgrade. It should be appreciated that themessaging module 1010 may be configured to receive other suitable typesof messages that may or may not require specific actions by thehomeowner or the contractor. For example, messaging module 1010 may beconfigured to provide current weather information and/or weatherforecast information to the end user. In such examples where themessaging module 1010 provides current weather information and/orweather forecast information to the end user, “energy tips” may beprovided to the messaging module 1010 to inform the end user if theweather is changing and/or suggest turning up or down the HVAC equipment110 based on that information.

In one example, if a message does not require action includingcontractor assistance, the messaging module 1010 may be configured toprovide the homeowner with an option to delete the message after it isread. In one example, if a message does require action includingcontractor assistance, the messaging module 1010 may be configured toprovide the homeowner with an option to contact the contractor. Forexample, the messaging module 1010 may provide a homeowner with anoption of either calling or emailing the contractor. If the homeownerselects the “call” option, the messaging module 1010 may automaticallyinitiate a telephone call to the contractor. If the homeowner selectsthe “email” option, the messaging module 1010 may open an email templatefrom the homeowner's default email application and prepopulate thetemplate with information presented in the received message including,for example, a diagnostics report, a description of any detectedfailures or issues, and/or a parts list of any parts needed to addressor fix the issue. In one example, the messaging module 1010 mayprepopulate the email address with the appropriate email address of acontractor associated with the homeowner's account. In one example, themessaging module 1010 may be configured to automatically contact thecontractor, either by email or a telephone call, when a message thatrequires action including contractor assistance is generated. Thus, aself-diagnostic feature may be provided that alerts the contractor thatsomething is wrong with the system 100, and lets the contractor know theparts needed to fix the problem and may also provide the contractor withinstructions for solving the problem as well. In some examples, thehomeowner may order replacement parts or other products or services viathe homeowner computing device 120, for example, the messaging module1010. In some examples, the system 100 may be configured to alert thecontractor of a predicted failure and order the necessary parts withoutthe user's input.

The homeowner computing device 120 further includes a settings module1012 for enabling a homeowner to access and adjust various suitablesettings. For example, the settings module 1012 may enable a homeownerto add or delete other users and to grant them access to one or morezones within a location or to all zones within a specific location. Inone example the settings module 1012 may enable a homeowner to view andedit contractor information. It should be appreciated that the settingsmodule 1012 may further be configured to enable a homeowner to modifyother suitable settings, including, for example, zone names, WiFiconfiguration, display preferences, access credentials and levels ofusers, and so on.

The system 100 may also include energy conservation functions wherebythe end user is rewarded for conserving energy. The “energy tips” mayadvise the end user to adjust operation of the HVAC equipment 110 basedon historical data. In some examples, these “energy tips” may be tied toenergy supplier promotions and/or rebates. For example, an end-user'senergy supplier may be notified that the end-user is conserving energyby following the “energy tips” such that the end user is eligible forpromotions, rebates, reduced rates, etc. The “energy tips” may alsoprovide the end user the option of whether to let the energy supplierremotely control the system 100 and/or the HVAC equipment 110, for whichthe energy supplier may reward the end-user with energy discounts orrebates. For example, energy suppliers may offer rebates or discounts toend-users permit the energy supplier to control heating and cooling inthe building (or one or more zones thereof) during peak power usagetimes.

FIG. 11 illustrates a block diagram of an example administratorcomputing device 122 for enabling a contractor, an energy supplier, orother systems administrator to interface with system 100. Administratorcomputing device 122 includes a sign-in module 1102 configured toreceive login credentials from a contractor and to grant access to thesystem 100 upon successfully validating the received credentials. If thecontractor is accessing a system 100 for the first time, the sign-inmodule 1102 requires provisioning of the system 100. For example, thesign-in module 1102 requires the contractor to select from a list ofdetected control boxes 108 and to provide an identifier such as serialnumber, or other suitable information, to ensure that the contractor isaccessing the correct control box 108. In one example, the sign-inmodule 1102 may require the contractor to perform some interaction withthe control box 108, such as to push a button or observe a flashinglight in order to further ensure that the contractor is accessing thecorrect control box 1108.

The administrator computing device 122 further includes a dashboardmodule 1104 for providing information about the system 100 that thecontractor can use for maintenance, monitoring, and troubleshootingpurposes. The dashboard module 1104 may also be configured to permit thecontractor or energy supplier to control the system 100 and/or the HVACequipment 110 for example, for energy conservation purposes.

If a contractor is accessing a control box 108 for the first time, asetup module 1106 enables a contractor to set up a system by defininghardware of the system 100 and associating the hardware with differentzones. For example, the setup module 1106 may enable a contractor todrag and drop hardware, such as dampers and temperature controllers,from a list of available unassigned hardware and to associate thehardware with specific zones. Thus, zones can be defined in a variety ofways including a single room of a home, multiple rooms, a portion of aroom, and so on. In one example, the setup module 1106 enables acontractor to initiate an LED indicator of a selected hardware to flashin order to ensure that the correct hardware is being assigned to aspecific zone. In one example, the setup module 1106 enables acontractor to define new zones, edit zones, or delete zones.

The administrator computing device 122 further includes messaging module1108 configured to enable a contractor to draft and communicate messagesto a homeowner about the status of the system 100. In one example, themessaging module 1108 may include one or more predefined messages thatthe contractor can select from and send to the homeowner. In someexamples, the messaging module 1108 may be configured to alert thecontractor and/or energy supplier about up-coming scheduled maintenanceand/or appointments regarding the same.

In some examples, the system 100 is configured to predict and addressfailures before they occur. For example, the system 100 may beconfigured to sense changes in operation of various components of thesystem 100 and/or the HVAC equipment 110 or count cycles to determinethe likelihood of something failing. Upon determination that failure islikely, the system 100 may be configured to order a replacement partand/or schedule preventative maintenance appointment. For example, if itis known that a certain component of the damper 104 is susceptible tofailure after a certain number of cycles or after being in operation acertain amount of time (e.g., that the damper motor or any other partbegins to weaken after a certain number of cycles (i.e., X cycles)),then the system 100 may be configured to make a recommendation to theinstaller that this certain component should be addressed (e.g.,recommend to the installer that the motor or other part should bereplaced) to prevent a future failure before the components actuallybreaks and causes an issue.

FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram of an example computer 1200 forimplementing the example homeowner computing device 120 and theadministrator computing device 122 of FIG. 1. The example computer 1200is intended to represent various forms of digital computers, includinglaptops, desktops, handheld computers, tablet computers, smartphones,servers, and other similar types of computing devices. Computer 1200includes a processor 1202, memory 1204, a storage device 1206, and acommunication port 1208, operably connected by an interface 1222 via abus 1210.

Processor 1202 processes instructions, via memory 1204, for executionwithin computer 800. In an example embodiment, multiple processors alongwith multiple memories may be used.

Memory 1204 may be volatile memory or non-volatile memory. Memory 1204may be a computer-readable medium, such as a magnetic disk or opticaldisk. Storage device 1206 may be a computer-readable medium, such asfloppy disk devices, a hard disk device, optical disk device, a tapedevice, a flash memory, phase change memory, or other similar solidstate memory device, or an array of devices, including devices in astorage area network of other configurations. A computer program productcan be tangibly embodied in a computer readable medium such as memory1204 or storage device 1206.

Computer 1200 can be coupled to one or more input and output devicessuch as a display 1214, a printer 1216, a scanner 1218, and a mouse1220.

To the extent that the term “includes” or “including” is used in thespecification or the claims, it is intended to be inclusive in a mannersimilar to the term “comprising” as that term is interpreted whenemployed as a transitional word in a claim. Furthermore, to the extentthat the term “or” is employed (e.g., A or B) it is intended to mean “Aor B or both.” When the applicants intend to indicate “only A or B butnot both” then the term “only A or B but not both” will be employed.Thus, use of the term “or” herein is the inclusive, and not theexclusive use. See, Bryan A. Garner, A Dictionary of Modern Legal Usage624 (2d. Ed. 1995). Also, to the extent that the terms “in” or “into”are used in the specification or the claims, it is intended toadditionally mean “on” or “onto.” Furthermore, to the extent the term“connect” is used in the specification or claims, it is intended to meannot only “directly connected to,” but also “indirectly connected to”such as connected through another component or components.

While the claimed subject matter of the present application has beendescribed with reference to certain embodiments, it will be understoodby those skilled in the art that various changes may be made andequivalents may be substituted without departing from the scope of theclaimed subject matter. In addition, many modifications may be made toadapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the claimedsubject matter without departing from its scope. For example, any system100 component described herein could be of either wired or wirelessconnection, according to various embodiment. Therefore, it is intendedthat the claimed subject matter not be limited to the particularembodiment disclosed, but that the claimed subject matter will includeall embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A damper for an HVAC system configured todistribute airflow through at least one air duct, the damper comprising:a rail assembly for providing support to the damper and securing andsealing the damper on the air duct; a damper blade assembly forregulating the amount of airflow passing through the air duct, thedamper blade assembly having blade that is movable between an openposition and a closed position; a damper module configured to control anorientation of the blade between the open position and the closedposition; a scavenger assembly removably attached to the rail assemblyand configured to harvest energy from airflow passing by the damperinside the air duct, wherein the scavenger assembly, when detached fromthe rail assembly, may be positioned at a first location within the airduct that is spaced apart from a second location where the rail assemblyis installed on the air duct; and a scavenger module configured to storepower generated from energy harvested by the scavenger assembly and tosupply power to the damper module for positioning the blade.
 2. Thedamper of claim 1, wherein the damper operates in a scavenger mode usingonly power generated by the scavenger assembly where airflow is greaterthan or equal to a predefined maximum rate.
 3. The damper of claim 2,further comprising a supplemental power source configured to supplypower to the damper where airflow is less than the predefined maximumrate.
 4. The damper of claim 3, wherein the damper operates in asupplemental power mode using power supplied only by the supplementalpower source where air flow is less than or equal to a predefinedminimum rate, wherein the predefined minimum rate is less than thepredefined maximum rate.
 5. The damper of claim 4, wherein the damperoperates in a hybrid power mode using power supplied by both thescavenger assembly and the supplemental power source where airflow isless than the predefined maximum rate and greater than the predefinedminimum rate.
 6. The damper of claim 3, wherein the supplemental powersource is selected from the group consisting of a rechargeable batteryand an external power source hardwired to the damper, and combinationsof the same.
 7. The damper of claim 1, wherein the scavenger assemblyincludes an impeller that rotates as airflow passes by, and wherein thescavenger module is configured to translate the rotation of the impellerinto power.
 8. The damper of claim 7, wherein the impeller is configuredas an anemometer for measuring velocity of airflow.
 9. The damper ofclaim 8, wherein the damper determines whether to operate using asupplemental source of power based on feedback indicative of velocity ofairflow.
 10. The damper of claim 8, wherein the damper module adjustsorientation of the blade based on feedback indicative of velocity ofairflow.
 11. The damper of claim 7, wherein the impeller does not boostairflow through the air duct.
 12. The damper of claim 1, wherein therail assembly is secured over a removed portion of the air duct.
 13. Thedamper of claim 1, wherein the damper module includes a sensorconfigured to measure the rate at which the damper module actuates theblade.
 14. The damper of claim 13, wherein the damper module includes acontroller that is in communication with the sensor and is configured todetermine position of the blade from feedback received from the sensor.15. The damper of claim 13, wherein the sensor is at least one HallEffect sensor.